Lower back pain can be a debilitating problem that severely affects your quality of life. When you’re suffering from chronic back pain, you often have to miss out on the things you like to do, and your career could even be impacted. In addition to seeing your chiropractor in Fort Wayne regularly for treatment, there are some lifestyle changes that you could make that could reduce your symptoms. Talk to your chiropractor about whether these changes could improve your low back pain. 

Weight Loss

Excess weight can have a significant impact on your back. It puts pressure on your spine and contributes to things like slipped discs that cause back pain. By losing weight, you can reduce that pressure and your spine and make your chiropractic treatment more effective. Even a small weight loss can make a big difference. If you need help with nutritional advice, ask your chiropractor for tips for eating a balanced diet that will support your back pain recovery.

Physical Activity

When you experience lower back pain, it is natural to be less active than before. In addition to the discomfort of activity, you may be worried about causing further damage to your back by exercising. However, for most people, not being active only exacerbates the symptoms, because it contributes to stiffness. Your chiropractor can recommend safe activities that will contribute to your symptom relief without putting your back at risk. He or she may also recommend physical therapy to help you rebuild the strength in your back, which offers protection against future back issues.

Better Posture

Posture plays a big role in back pain symptoms. Today’s working culture lends itself to posture issues, as people hunch over keyboards and smartphones all day. Likewise, it’s common for people to stand with their shoulders hunched over and neck bent, putting uneven pressure on their spines and increasing their risk for slipped discs. Paying attention to keeping your spine straight, shoulders back, and neck in a neutral position could be an important part of recovering from lower back pain.